Social Emotional Books for Children

Updated April 19, 2023
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Be kind
Miller, Pat Zietlow
Paper Book
A New York Times bestseller! "These days, it seems more important than ever for books to show young people how to act with thoughtfulness, civility, and kindness." --The New York Times Book Review When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her...
The big umbrella
Bates, Amy June
Paper Book
"A subtle, deceptively simple book about inclusion, hospitality, and welcoming the 'other.'" --Kirkus Reviews "A boundlessly inclusive spirit...This open-ended picture book creates a natural springboard for discussion." --Booklist "This sweet extended...
Brave
McAnulty, Stacy
Paper Book
An empowering picture book for all kids that demonstrates to children that they can be real-life superheroes and that all kids have what it takes to be brave. Superheroes seek adventure, never give up, and stay calm when others are afraid. Superheroes are brave. But they...
Everyone...
Neal, Christopher Silas
Paper Book
Everyone cries, everyone laughs, everyone sings--everyone. A celebrated illustrator explores the universality of feelings in his authorial debut. Christopher Silas Neal, praised by the New York Times for his "stunning retro-style illustrations," invites young readers to...
Hector's favorite place
Rooks, Jo
Paper Book
Hector loves his cozy, snuggly, safe home. It's his favorite place to be. Hector loves his home so much that he doesn't often go out, and soon, it starts to affect his friendships. Can Hector find the courage to break out of his comfort zone? Included is a Note to Parents,...
Jack's worry
Zuppardi, Sam
Paper Book
A touching and reassuring story about the jitters associated with first experiences -- and the satisfaction that comes with conquering your fears. Jack loves playing the trumpet, and for weeks he's been looking forward to taking part in his first concert. But on the morning of...
The koala who could
Bright, Rachel
Paper Book
Niko draws a feeling
Raczka, Bob
Paper Book
Niko loves to draw his world: the ring-a-ling of the ice cream truck, the warmth of sun on his face. But no one appreciates his art. Until one day, Niko meets Iris . . . This imaginative and tender story explores the creative process, abstract art, friendship, and the universal...
Perfectly Norman
Percival, Tom
Paper Book
How can you be proud of what makes you unique? From the creator of Ruby Finds a Worry, an empowering picture book about embracing and celebrating what makes you different. Norman had always been perfectly normal . . . until one day, he grew a pair of wings! Wings...
The rabbit listened
Doerrfeld, Cori
Paper Book
A moving and universal picture book about empathy and kindness, sure to soothe heartaches big and small--now a New York Times bestseller and a perfect gift for any special occasion When something sad happens, Taylor doesn't know where to turn. All the animals are sure they...
The worry box
Chiew, Suzanne
Paper Book
Murray Bear is supposed to go to the waterfall with his sister, Molly, to meet a friend, but Murray is worried. "What if it's too LOUD?" he cries "Or what if I get swept away!" So Molly tells him about her special worry box. "When I'm worried about something," she says, "I write it down, then put it...
Strictly no elephants
Mantchev, Lisa
Paper Book
"A sunny, smart, tongue-in-cheek tale." --The New York Times Book Review "Sweet and affirming." --Kirkus Reviews "With a gentle message of inclusion and helping others, this title reaches beyond a mere friendship story."--School Library Journal ...
There might be lobsters
Crimi, Carolyn
Paper Book
Come on, Sukie, you can do it! A little dog's paralyzing anxiety gives way to bravery when someone smaller is in need in this humorous, tenderly sympathetic story. Lots of things at the beach scare Sukie. Lots. Because she is just a small dog, and the stairs are big and sandy,...
All are welcome
Penfold, Alexandra
Paper Book
Join the call for a better world with this New York Times bestselling picture book about a school where diversity and inclusion are celebrated. The perfect back-to-school read for every kid, family and classroom! In our classroom safe and sound. Fears are lost and...

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